Top 7 Features to Compare Before Buying a Video Game
Choosing the right video game can be a major investment of time and money. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore gamer, understanding the most important features to look for can make the difference between an unforgettable experience and a disappointing purchase. Here are the top 7 features every gamer should compare before clicking that “Buy” button.
1. Graphics and Art Style
A game’s visuals create your first impression. But graphics aren’t just about high-end realism; it’s about the artistic direction too.
- Some players prefer hyper-realistic graphics like in Red Dead Redemption 2.
- Others may love stylized art like in Hades or The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
Before buying, check gameplay footage, not just trailers. Trailers are designed to be cinematic, while gameplay shows the real in-game look.
2. Story and Narrative Depth
For many gamers, a compelling story is non-negotiable. If you’re drawn to deep plots, rich lore, and emotional character development, make sure you prioritize games known for their storytelling.
Examples:
- The Witcher 3 — branching quests and emotional weight
- God of War Ragnarök — mythological storytelling excellence
- Detroit: Become Human — narrative choice-heavy gameplay
If the story matters to you, reviews often highlight how much narrative depth you can expect.
3. Gameplay Mechanics and Controls
No matter how beautiful a game looks, clunky controls can ruin the experience.
Consider:
- How smooth is the combat or exploration?
- Is there a steep learning curve?
- Are there tutorials for beginners?
Games like Celeste are praised for tight, responsive controls, whereas others can be needlessly complicated.
4. Game Length and Replay Value
Ask yourself:
- Do you want a game you can complete in a weekend?
- Or a massive open-world adventure that eats up hundreds of hours?
Check:
- Estimated main story length
- Side quests, collectibles, and alternative endings
- Post-game content (new game+, expansions)
Games like Persona 5 offer 100+ hours easily, while indie games like Journey wrap up in just a few hours but still leave a lasting impact.
5. Multiplayer and Online Features
If you’re someone who enjoys playing with friends, checking multiplayer options is crucial.
Some questions to ask:
- Does the game have co-op or competitive multiplayer?
- Are servers stable?
- Is there cross-play with other platforms?
Games like Fortnite, Among Us, and Monster Hunter World thrive on strong multiplayer communities.
6. Developer Reputation and Support
Always look at who made the game.
- Developers with a history of delivering quality (like Naughty Dog or FromSoftware) are usually safer bets.
- Ongoing updates and post-launch support matter too. Games like No Man’s Sky turned their reputation around through consistent improvements after launch.
Checking how the developer interacts with the community can save you from buying into a broken or abandoned game.
7. Price vs. Value
The biggest question: Is it worth it?
Look beyond just the initial cost:
- Are there hidden costs like DLCs or microtransactions?
- Is the “full experience” locked behind extra purchases?
Sometimes a $40 indie game offers more joy than a $70 blockbuster stuffed with cash shops.
Conclusion
Before buying any game, take time to compare these seven crucial features. Doing a little research now ensures you’ll spend your hard-earned money on experiences you’ll love — not regret. 🕹️